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Used 750-1000 CD Player Advise

I am looking for some suggestions on a CD Player upgrade. I�m not interested at this time in SACD or a combo DVD. I also don�t want to go with separate transport / DAC as space is an issue. I am currently using a 10-year-old Sony ES 5 disc changer. Multi disc capacity is not a requirement any longer. I listen to various types of music from Rock to Jazz to Blues to Country. I don�t really care for a laid back sound and the speakers, to me are already a little soft on the upper end. Any Thoughts?

Associated Equipment:

Amps = Llano A-300 Monos
Preamp = SF Line 1
Interconnects = HT Pro Silway
Speaker Cable = AZ Satori
Speakers = VMPS ST\R

Thanks for the help!
bmccormick
13 responses Add your response
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
Maybe look into Rega stuff. Denon made the 1650 AR that was an excellent player, you can pick it up used for about $450. Hope this helps
karls
332 posts
 
Try Arcam-- I like Rega a lot but it seems like Arcam's sound will fit your system and tastes better.
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
Another suggestion....Audio Refinement by YBA. I was always impressed with the build quality of the components in this entry level series. And it also has digital output (RCA's) so you can always upgrade your D/A converter (since the digital "wars" a Redbook 48 kHz D/A converter can be had for "short money". The CD player should only be $600- or LESS on the used market. Happy Tunes!
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
The Rega is nice. For under $700 the Rotel RCD-991; if your're lucky the rare Rotel RCD-990 for $1K. For under $500 the Rotel RCD-971 has the same dual dacs as the 990/991. A Creek or Arcam would fit nice in there also.
fzxguy
62 posts
 
REGA ** REGA ** REGA ** FOR JAZZ/ROCK /BLUES AT THAT PRICE
bmccormick OP
56 posts
 
Thanks all for the input. Would the gain in sound quality be worth increasing my budget to $1250 or so.
karls
332 posts
 
If you can stretch it a little, definitely look into a Theta Miles- not as good as the 2k players but better than the budget stuff, overall an excellent unit at very good prices lately.
bwyoung
143 posts
 
I would go with a good used transport and a used Theta Pro Basic IIIa. Sound is excellent for the price you can get them for.
fineberg
151 posts
 
If you strech your budget to $1200-$1300 you ought to be able to find a used Muse Model 9. This player is in a whole different class from the other units mentioned. The Muse digital gear is amazing and you should definitely give it a listen.
karls
332 posts
 
I agree about the Muse, didn't know they had gotten that cheap!
kgb540
125 posts
 
Look for a PD-93 Pioneer Elite. World class CD player. I cannot say enough good things about it. The construction makes most new CD, SACD, DVD players look like toys! And the sound it breath-taking!
bigtee
803 posts
 
Try a used Meridian 508-20. Should be around $1000 on the used market. You will forget about a Rega, Rotel and the Audio Refinement after hearing this player. Very, very close to the sound of the 508-24. Some people actually prefer this player to the 508-24.
bmccormick OP
56 posts
 
Thank you all, I appreciate all the help and suggestions. How would you compare the Theta Miles, Muse Model 9, SF CD1 and the AR CD-1. These are the choices I am now considering due to budget. I have read so many discussions in the forums now I think I'm dizzy.
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